Introduction to the Liliopsida

The Monocots

The Monocotyledonae comprise one-quarter of all
flowering plant
species. They include some of the largest and most familiar groups of plants,
including lilies, orchids,
agaves,
palms, and
grasses.
Though often described as having a stereotype morphology, the
monocots are actually quite diverse, ranging from tiny duckweeds to
large palms and climbing vines.

Economically, monocots are perhaps the most important organisms
on earth. Our four most important foods -- corn, rice, wheat, and
barley -- all come from monocots. Bamboo and palms are a primary
source of building materials and fibers in many tropical countries.
Sugar cane, pineapples, dates, bananas, and many of our familiar
tropical fruits also come from monocots.

Click on the buttons below to learn more about the Monocots.

Photo of pampas grass by Brian R. Speer; all others courtesy the Jepson Herbarium, and used with permission.